Studying abroad in sunny, warm Barcelona, is quite a different experience from Denver in the winter. I must say, it is so amazing being a 15 minute walk from the beach and the Sagrada Familia. Most of the days my first week have consisted of runs and walks around the city, while enjoying the sunshine, sunsets and people watching. Quite fantastic for January, especially for someone who has only ever lived in the mountains.

Since it is winter, and most people consider it quite cold right now, the beaches are almost always practically empty, and the tourist crowds are not too bad. If you are a person who does not like constant crowds, places being booked up, and loud people at night, this should definitely be a consideration for your study abroad location. For example, I was also in Florence Italy for fall semester. There were constant crowds, long lines, and stores and restaurants were always full. Tourism is booming everywhere, so there was only a one week lull during my entire four months abroad in Italy. Barcelona is the same during the warmer months. It should not deter you from a place, because being in an environment like that teaches you a lot about adaptability, and mindfulness. Overall, most cities I have been to in Europe that are notorious for petty crime such a Rome, London and Barcelona, have been fine traveling through so far. Make sure you are always aware of yourself, your stuff and don’t ask for attention, and you’ll be just fine! Don’t let things you see on the media intimidate you from traveling or especially solo traveling to places you want to go to, within reason of course.

If you’re also a person who is hesitant to study abroad for a whole semester, ISA Barcelona Pompeu Fabra is the only quarter length program! Which works perfectly with the DU schedule, you study abroad from January until the end of March, enjoy a week of spring break, and then head back to DU for spring quarter. Classes here are also a similar size to DU, making a great conversational environment in the classes. All of the professors are so great with lots of experience and qualifications. The school is quite organized and the class schedules too, which is something I appreciate a lot.

I always knew I wanted to return to Spain, and/or be near the ocean, so this program is ideal for a unique winter experience if you want to escape the cold. The university is so nice, there are multiple campuses spread across the city, and all are unique. Spaniards are so friendly, I enjoy practicing my Spanish whenever I can, and the locals are always receptive. There are so many amazing locations nearby, for example the country Andora is a mere 2.5 hour drive away! Along with many nearby picturesque beach towns. There of course is so much to do in Barcelona itself, and I spent most of my second weekend in Spain checking sightseeing off my bucket list, and taking street photos. Every building is so gorgeous and unique, Gaudi architecture is something everyone must see at one point. As a photographer, I have been in heaven, and taking so many photos. Barcelona is definitely one of the more unique European city I have been to. I can’t wait to keep exploring it.

Follow along on my journey and see Barcelona through my lens! https://www.instagram.com/aminbcn__/